Libya

Orientation

One should not smoke during meetings.

One should not smoke during meetings.

Remove shoes outside if asked to do so.

Greet with handshakes and end meetings with handshakes

Do

A bowl of scented water will be passed around before the meeting, dip three fingers in the water as a form of ritual cleansing.

Greet elders first.

Only eat with the Right hand.

Gifts are considered a very polite gesture and are not supposed to be opened till everyone leaves.

Showing up on time is respectful, but being 15-20 minutes late is not considered rude.

Dress traditionally

Dress traditionally

Non-Verbal communication

When talking to someone who is the opposite sex, continues eye contact is not recommended for anyone.

Occasional eye contact is necessary to show others that you are interested.

'Yes' is a slight downward nod of the head.

Spatial perception

Warm handshakes before and after the meeting

Warm handshakes before and after the meeting

Commonly known for senior people to arrive last.

Don't

Eating with Left hand is considered disrespectful.

Do not reject coffee or tea.

Finish all the food, leaving some food shows that your host has showered you with generosity and abundance.

Do no address someone by only their first name unless invited to do so.

Verbal Communication

The most common greeting is "Asalaamu Alaikum" meaning "Peace be with you". To which, the other person is supposed to respond with "wa alaikum salam" meaning "and peace be with you".